Phi Mu - Louisiana State University

3 The 4090 News Giving Society 5-Year Pledge Monthly Semiannually Annually A. Hays Town $150,000 $2,500 $15,000 $30,000 Les Soeurs Fidel $100,000 $1,667 $10,000 $20,000 Quatrefoil $50,000 $833 $5,000 $10,000 Carnation $25,000 $417 $2,500 $5,000 Rose and White $15,000 $250 $1,500 $3,000 Heart and Hand $10,000 $167 $1,000 $2,000 Lady Bug $5,000 $83 $500 $1,000 Sisterhood $2,500 $42 $250 $500 Tiger $1,000 $17 $100 $200 A Strong First Impression "I just had a feeling" sounds cliché, but it certainly applied when I joined the ice water party on the first day of rush (now recruitment). Phi Mu was the last of 10 parties I attended that day. I recall hoping my lip gloss was holding up and that my sweat beads would fall into the glistening category. But once I walked in, those insecurities were banished by the warm demeanor and genuine smiles that greeted me. I felt welcome and comfortable and knew I wanted to be a part of whatever these lovely young women had. My Alpha Eta sisters were motivated and dedicated students, and we respected one another's talents and interests. Whether a sister was preparing for the MCAT or writing a paper on Greek philosophy, it was important she succeed and embrace the journey. The acceptance and support that existed within Alpha Eta taught me fulfillment in life is greater when we have others rooting for us. Finding My Calling I worked in accounting and finance for a few years after graduating from LSU and then earned my MBA from the University of Southern California. The most valuable lesson I learned was that a career in business was not my calling. I am blessed to have an understanding husband who encouraged me to move on to something that fulfilled me. I realized that being a wife, a daughter, and a dog mom was where I found happiness. Staying Involved Life gets busy as we grow into our own families and careers, but it was important to me to stay involved with Phi Mu because my experience was so meaningful. I want others to experience the joy and growth that I gained, and I see alumnae involvement as an integral part of keeping the spirit and sisterhood alive. I keep in contact with my Alpha Eta roomies and the tight group we maintained in our hall in the house. Though bachelorette parties and weddings are far gone, we try to plan a biannual girls' trip. Preserving Our Home I have such fond memories of the time I spent in the house, watching Days of our Lives between classes, relaxing in the courtyard, sitting in the halls lamenting upcoming exams or bad dates, going room to room wondering what we're going to wear, or hugging the tears away when nothing seemed to be going right. The Alpha Eta house was so much more than walls; it represented close friends, trust, comfort, and belonging. It is important to me the house remains a true home where the members of Alpha Eta can experience stability as they transition from young collegiate ladies to women with lofty aspirations. As with many things in life, first impressions are so important. The beauty and charm of the house are tangible assets to both the Chapter members and potential candidates. Alpha Eta must remain competitive with the other houses on the row if we seek to attract upstanding candidates with impeccable standards. As such, it is paramount that we put our best foot forward. It is not a replacement for our character and values, but an outward reflection of the pride we take in being a part of Alpha Eta Chapter of Phi Mu. Funding the Future I would encourage other alumnae to reflect on their time at the house. No gift will be too small; all are appreciated and significant to the project. And if a monetary gift is not an option, perhaps there are other volunteer opportunities that would be of great value to the campaign. Remember the remarkable times and opportunities that Phi Mu provided you. Do not lose sight of how enriching Phi Mu can still be in your life! Warm and Inviting, Inside and Out Laura Williams '95 on Alpha Eta's Character and Curb Appeal Laura lives in Bermuda with her husband, Billy, and three dogs, Chewy, Marzipan, and George. She has two stepdaughters and five step-grandchildren and visits Dallas often to see family. She loves LSU sports and is grateful for modern technology, which allows her to watch games from the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. You can reach her at lmw64@icloud.com. Donor Recognition Policies • All donors with gifts or pledges of $1,000 or more will be recognized in all campaign mailings. • All donors with gifts or pledges of $2,500 or more will have their name placed on a plaque in a prominent area of the Chapter House. • All donors with gifts or pledges of $15,000 or more will be eligible for a room naming opportunity. Look for more information coming soon. This chart demonstrates the impact that your gift can have by making a five-year pledge.

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